I started playing taps for the local VFW, performing in military funerals, when I was twelve years old. This was a great opportunity to honor the military service of members of our community and gain experience in performing for strangers.
Music Ed Mentor Podcast #59: Private Lessons
This week we’re talking about something most of us do: teach private lessons. I adore teaching one-on-one lessons for a lot of reasons.
Encouraging Student Feedback and Healthy Criticism
We all know that being a professional in any field means facing competition and criticism. It can feel overwhelming to a young person who is trying to find their own way in that environment.
Performing The Stars and Stripes Forever
Composed on Christmas Day, 1896 by John Philip Sousa, The Stars and Stripes Forever quickly became one of the most famous marches both in the United States and abroad.
Music Ed Mentor Bonus Podcast: Grants – How to Get What You Want
Have you ever wished you could just wave a magic wand and have someone give you everything you’ve ever wanted for your music program?
Featured Content: Mantras by Richard Meyer
Richard Meyer’s Mantras is a string orchestra piece that incorporates easy mixed meter, modal scales and driving syncopations to create a level of excitement not often found in grade three music.
The Assessment Road Trip: Creating an Assessment Plan for your Ensemble
Assessment in the ensemble room can be a daunting task. The process can lead to a lot of moans and groans (from students and teachers).
Music Ed Mentor Podcast #58: Meditation and Mindfulness in the Music Classroom
Every music teacher I’ve ever met has had a horrible-day experience where they thought something like: I love my career but I hate my job.
October 2019 Repertoire Update: Seasonal Music!
Within new SmartMusic is an “Essential Content” library that is available to everyone, even students using SmartMusic for free. It contains exercises, sight-reading tools, select state scales, and Sound Innovations, book 1 for both band and orchestra.
10 Easy Ear-Training Exercises for Choir
As a former high school choir director, I recognize both the challenges and rewards of teaching aural skills within the context of large group rehearsals.